Constitutional Expert Warns: Court’s Ongoing Involvement In Elections Sparks Voter Apathy

Professor Sambo Abdulfatai, a specialist in constitutional law and justice, has expressed concern that the persistent involvement of the court in the nation’s electoral process is contributing to voter apathy. While acknowledging some advantages, he emphasized the significant risks and burdens imposed on the electoral system……..CONTINUE READING

Addressing a public gathering in Ilọrin, the capital of Kwara State, on Monday, Prof Abdulfatai highlighted that court interventions have played a role in curbing the abuse of political offices and promoting constitutional sanctity and stability in Nigeria’s democracy. However, he underscored the inherent dangers of this practice.

The constitutional expert warned of potential judicial errors, financial inducement and bribery, as well as the unnecessary burden on the judiciary in terms of the escalating number of cases. He argued that the judiciary lacks training in the intricacies of politics and pointed out that the Supreme Court is currently deliberating on the governorship tussle in Kano State, carefully weighing the risks involved.

Prof Abdulfatai cautioned that such developments could foster a negative environment, where politicians may believe they can secure electoral victories or deliver democratic dividends by influencing the judiciary through bribery. This, he believes, would result in citizens becoming disengaged from politics.

While acknowledging the advantages, implications, and merits of continuous judicial intervention, Prof Abdulfatai stressed the need for careful management to mitigate the associated risks, which he deems substantial.

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